text:
After five decades of being an educator, I am growing weary of the constant discussion over the divide between education and technology. When will we reach a point where we will discuss Education, teaching and learning without having to debate technology? The idea of learning hasn't changed since the beginning of time. We learn to survive and improve. Much like breathing, it is what we do naturally. Unlike breathing, some learn better than others, but the concept is the same for everyone. It is the degree of learning that is the variable.
Education addresses learning and teaching for specific goals. Of course what those specific goals are, is a point of contention among many people, both educators and non-educators alike. I think we can agree that education teaches many skills, which people can use to exist, thrive, compete, and create in society. This should hold true for whatever skills are taught in whatever society they are taught in, be it primitive, or advanced. Obviously, the more complicated the society is, the more sophisticated the skills that must be taught.
If we analyze and list all the skills that we deem essential to teach, I think there would be a great deal of commonality without regard to any country. The languages may vary, but the skills would be the same. Discussions of education in these terms would sound similar no matter what country in which these discussions took place. For the sake of this discussion, we could break down all education to its basic elements of reading, writing, and speaking. I am sure that there are some educators who remember education being just as simple as that from back in their day. Actually, it wasn't all that long ago.
What has changed in education since the late seventies is not the specific skills we teach, but how they will be used. Technology has crept into our society in both obvious, and subtle ways. It has changed the way many of us do things, but for our children it is the only way they can or ever knew how do things. We old folks grew up watching TV. It was part of our culture. Kids today do not view it the same way. We used to dress up as an occasion to travel on a plane. Today, never a second thought is given to jumping on a plane dressed in any manner to get anywhere. A second phone in a household was once a luxury, and today each member of a family carries their own phone. The world has changed and continues to do so at a frightening pace. It is not something we control. IT has become part of the infrastructure. It is as important as roads, rails, planes and power grids.
The very skills that we as educators are charged to teach our kids will be used in a technology-driven society. The skills remain the same, but their application has drastically changed over the last decades. We can discuss education as education without technology, but at some point we must address how kids will be using that which they have learned. If the application of their learned skills will be technology driven than the very tools they should be learning with should also be technology-driven.
The biggest problem with technology is the pace at which it evolves. It moves faster than folks can catch up to it. Because of that, it becomes a burden on educators to learn what they need to know in order to teach skills in an environment close to what kids will be expected to live in. Many educators are running as fast as they can to catch up, but too many others are reluctant.
Some believe that just teaching the skills is enough. They feel kids will adapt, after all they are digital natives. I don't feel that way. I have come to see that kids are great at exploring the Internet, Google searching, downloading music and movies, and texting at lightening speed with two thumbs. Beyond that, kids need to be shown how the skills that they have learned fit into the world in which they will live. This requires using tech in education as a tool and not a skill. We need not teach tech, to use it. It should be a tool for curating data, collaborating, communicating, and creating. This requires an application of their learned skills to produce and create stuff in a format that society recognizes as relevant.
I think the point that I am painstakingly trying to make is that technology needs not to be in discussions of education, but rather in how will the education of any kid be applied in an ever-evolving, technology-driven world in which tour kids will be required to live. We need to recognize what it is we are educating kids for. Where will they apply their education? If it is a world void of technology, than technology is less important in education. If not, than we need to better prepare them for what they will need.
In order to accomplish that, we need to better prepare ourselves as educators to deal with that. Educators need to be digitally literate and that doesn't happen on its own. It takes an effort. The excuse of "too much on the plate already" doesn't hold up against the argument of professional responsibility. The argument of education for the sake of education and the hell with technology doesn't hold up in light of the technological world in which these kids will live. Yes, we need to do more, and it isn't always easy. If we are to better educate our children, we need to better educate our educators. It is not an easy job. Isn't that what we tell people all the time?
cross posted at My Island View
Tom Whitby has decades of experience as a secondary school English teacher and Adjunct Professor of Education. He is a frequent conference contributor and has been recognized with an Edublog Award for the most Influential Educational Twitter Series, Edchat, which he founded. Read more at My Island View and follow on Twitter @tomwhitby


text:
Early in the morning, Abu-d Dardaa awoke and went straight to his idol which he kept in the best part of his house. He greeted it and made obeisance to it. Then he anointed it with the best perfume from his large shop and put on it a new raiment of beautiful silk which a merchant had brought to him the day before from Yemen.
When the sun was high in the sky he left his house for his shop. On that day the streets and alleys of Yathrib were crowded with the followers of Muhammad returning from Badr. With them were several prisoners of war. Abu-d Dardaa surveyed the crowds and then went up to a Khazraji youth and asked about the fate of Abdullah ibn Rawahah.
"He was put through the most severe tests in the battle," "but he emerged safely…"
Abu-d Dardaa was clearly anxious about his close friend, Abdullah ibn Rawahah. Everyone in Yathrib knew the bond of brotherhood which existed between the two men from the days of Jahiliyyah, before the coming of Islam to Yathrib. When Islam came to the city, Ibn Rawahah embraced it but Abu-d Dardaa rejected it. This however did not rupture the relationship between the two. Abdullah kept on visiting Abu-d Dardaa and tried to make him! see the virtues, the benefits and the excellence of Islam. But with every passing day, while Abu-d Dardaa remained a mushrik, Abdullah felt more sad and concerned.
Abu-d Dardaa arrived at his shop and sat cross-legged on a high chair. He began trading-buying and selling and giving instructions to his assistants unaware of what was going on at his house. For at that very time, Abdullah ibn Rawahah had gone to the house determined on a course of action. There, he saw that the main gate was open. Umm ad-Dardaa was in the courtyard and he said to her:
"As-salaamu alayki – Peace be unto you, servant of God."
"Wa alayka-s salaam – And unto you be peace, O brother of Abu-d Dardaa."
"Where is Abu-d Dardaa?" he asked. "He has gone to his shop. It won't be tong before he returns." "Would you allow me to come in?" "Make yourself at home," she said and went about busying herself with her household chores and looking after her children.
Abdullah ibn Rawahah went to the room where Abu-d Dardaa kept his idol. He took out an adz which he had brought with him and began destroying the idol while saying:
"Isn't everything batil which is worshipped besides Allah?"
When the idol was completely smashed, he left the house. Abu-d Dardaa's wife entered the room shortly afterwards and was aghast at what she saw. She smote her cheeks in anguish and said: "You have brought ruin to me, Ibn Rawahah." When Abu-d Dardaa returned home, he saw his wife sitting at the door of the room where he kept his idol. She was weeping loudly and she looked absolutely terrified. "What's wrong with you?" he asked.
"Your brother Abdullah ibn Rawahab visited us in your absence and did with your idols what you see." Abu-d Dardaa looked at the broken idol and was horrified. He was consumed with anger and determined to take revenge. Before long however his anger subsided and thoughts of avenging the idol disappeared. Instead he reflected on what had happened and said to himself:
"If there was any good in this idol, he would have defended himself against any injury."
He then went straight to Abdullah and together they went to the Prophet, peace be on him. There he announced his acceptance of Islam. He was the last person in his district to become a Muslim.
From this time onwards, Abu-d Dardaa devoted himself completely to Islam. Belief in God and His Prophet animated every fibre of his being. He deeply regretted every moment he had spent as a mushrik and the opportunities he had lost to do good. He realized how much his friends had learnt about siam in the preceding two or three years, how much of the Quran they had memorized and the opportunities they had to devote themselves to God and His Prophet. He made up his mind to expend every effort, day and night to try to make up for what he had missed. Ibadah occupied his days and his nights. His search for knowledge was restless. Much time he spent memorizing the words of the Quran and trying to understand the profundity of its message. When he saw that business and trade disturbed the sweetness of his ibadah and kept him away from the circles of knowledge, he reduced his involvement without hesitation or regret. Someone asked him why he did this and he replied:
"I was a merchant before my pledge to the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace. When I became a Muslim, I wanted to combine trade (tijarah) and worship (ibadah) but I did not achieve what I desired. So I abandoned trade and inclined towards ibadah.
"By Him in whose hand is the soul of Abu-d Dardaa, what I want to have is a shop near the door of the masjid so that I would not miss any Salat with the congregation. Then I shall sell and buy and make a modest profit every day."
"I am not saying," said Abu-d Dardaa to his questioner, "that Allah Great and Majestic is He has prohibited trade, but I want to be among those whom neither trade nor selling distracts form the remembrance of God ."
Abu-d Dardaa did not only become less involved in trade but he abandoned his hitherto soft and luxurious life-style. He ate only what was sufficient to keep him upright and he wore clothes that was simple and sufficient to cover his body.
Once a group of Muslims came to spend the night with him. The night was bitterly cold. He gave them hot food which they welcomed. He himself then went to sleep but he did not give them any blankets. They became anxious wondering how they were going to sleep on such a cold night. Then one of them said: "I will go and talk to him." "Don't bother him," said another.
However, the man went to Abu-d Dardaa and stood at the door of his room. He saw Abu-d Dardaa lying down. His wife was sitting near to him. They were both wearing light clothing which could not protect them from the cold and they had no blankets. Abu-d Dardaa said to his guest: "If there was anything we would have sent it to you."
During the caliphate of Umar, Umar wanted to appoint Abu-d Dardaa as a governor in Syria. Abu-d Dardaa refused. Umar persisted and then Abu-d Dardaa said:
"If you are content that I should go to them to teach them the Book of their Lord and the Sunnah of their Prophet and pray with them, I shall go."
Umar agreed and Abu-d Dardaa left for Damascus. There he found the people immersed in luxury and soft living. This appalled him. He called the people to the masjid and spoke to them:
"O people of Damascus! You are my brethren in religion, neighbors who live together and helpers one to another against enemies. "O people of Damascus! What is it that prevents you from being affectionate towards me and responding to my advice while I do not seek anything from you. Is it right that I see your learned ones departing (from this world) while the ignorant among you are not learning. I see that you incline towards such things which Allah has made you answerable for and you abandon what He has commanded you to do.
"Is it reasonable that I see you gathering and hoarding what you do not eat, and erecting buildings in which you do not live, and holding out hopes for things you cannot attain.
"Peoples before you have amassed wealth, made great plans and had high hopes. But it was not long before what they had amassed was destroyed, their hopes dashed and their houses turned into graves. Such were the people of Aad, O people of Damascus. They filled the earth with possessions and children.
"Who is there who will purchase from me today the entire legacy of Aad for two dirhams?"
The people wept and their sobs could be heard from outside the masjid. From that day, Abu-d Dardaa began to frequent the meeting places of the people of Damascus. He moved around in their market-places, teaching, answering questions and trying to arouse anyone who had become careless and insensitive. He used every opportunity and every occasion to awaken people, to set them on the right path.
Once he passed a group of people crowding around a man. They began insulting and beating the man. He came up to them and said: "What's the matter?" "This is a man who has committed a grave sin," they replied.
"What do you think you would do if he had fallen into a well?" asked Abu-d Dardaa. "Wouldn't you try to get him out?" "Certainly," they said. "Don't insult him and don't beat him. Instead admonish him and make him aware of the consequences of what he had done. Then give praise to God Who has preserved you from falling into such a sin." "Don't you hate him?" they asked Abu-d Dardaa.
"I only detest what he had done and if he abandons such practice, he is my brother." The man began to cry and publicly announced his repentance.
A youth once came up to Abu-d Dardaa and said: "Give me advice, O companion of the Messenger of God," and Abu-d Dardaa said to him:
"My son, remember Allah in good times and He will remember you in times of misfortune.
"My son, be knowledgeable, seek knowledge, be a good listener and do not be ignorant for you will be ruined.
"My son, let the masjid be your house for indeed I heard the Messenger of God say: The masjid is the house of every God-conscious person and God Almighty has guaranteed serenity, comfort, mercy and staying on the path leading to His pleasure, to those for whom masjids are their houses."
On another occasion, there was a group of people sitting in the street, chatting and looking at passers-by. Abu-d Dardaa came up to them and said:
"My sons, the monastery of a Muslim man is his house in which he controls himself and lowers his gaze. Beware of sitting in market-places because this fritters away time in vain pursuits."
While Abu-d Dardaa was in Damascus, Muawiyah ibn Abi Sufyan, its governor, asked him to give his daughter in marriage to his (Muawiyah's) son, Yazid. Abu-d Dardaa did not agree. Instead he gave his daughter in marriage to a young man from among the poor whose character and attachment to Islam pleased him. People heard about this and began talking and asking: Why did Abu-d Dardaa refuse to let his daughter marry Yazid? The question was put to Abu-d Dardaa himself and he said: "I have only sought to do what is good for ad-Dardaa." That was his daughter's name. "How?" enquired the person.
"What would you think of ad-Dardaa if servants were to stand in her presence serving her and if she were to find herself in palaces the glamour of which dazzled the eyes? What would become of her religion then?"
While Abu-d Dardaa was still in Syria, the Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab came on an inspection tour of the region. One night he went to visit Abu-d Dardaa at his home. There was no light in the house. Abu-d Dardaa welcomed the Caliph and sat him down. The two men conversed in the darkness. As they did so, Umar felt Abu-d Dardaa's "pillow" and realized it was an animal's saddle. He touched the place where Abu-d Dardaa lay and knew it was just small pebbles. He also felt the sheet with which he covered himself and was astonished to find it so flimsy that it couldn't possibly protect him from the cold of Damascus. Umar asked him:
"Shouldn't I make things more comfortable for you? Shouldn't I send something for you?"
"Do you remember, Umar," said Abu-d Dardaa, "a hadith which the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, told us?" "What is it?" asked Umar. "Did he not say: Let what is sufficient for anyone of you in this world be like the provisions of a rider?" "Yes," said Umar. "And what have we done after this, O Umar?" asked Abu-d Dardaa.
Both men wept no doubt thinking about the vast riches that had come the way of Muslims with the expansion of Islam and their preoccupation with amassing wealth and worldly possessions. With deep sorrow and sadness, both men continued to reflect on this situation until the break of dawn.
Visits: 0

subset: commoncrawl


text:
21 injured in fire aboard ship at Naval Base San Diego
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Twenty-one people suffered minor injuries in an explosion and fire Sunday on board a ship at Naval Base San Diego, military officials said.
The blaze was reported shortly before 9 a.m. on USS Bonhomme Richard, said Mike Raney, a spokesman for Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Seventeen sailors and four civilians were hospitalized with "non-life threatening injuries," Raney said in a brief statement. He didn't provide additional details.
Previously, officials said at least one person was treated for smoke inhalation.
The cause of the fire was under investigation. It wasn't immediately known where on the 840-foot (255-meter) amphibious assault vessel the blast and the fire occurred. The flames sent up a huge plume of dark smoke visible around San Diego.
Rear Adm. Philip Sobeck, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, told the San Diego Union-Tribune that the Navy thinks the fire began somewhere in a lower cargo hold where marine equipment and vehicles are stored.
The fire was not a fueled by fuel oil, hazardous materials or electrical causes, Sobeck told the newspaper. It was fueled by paper, cloth, rags or other materials in a standard fire. He said he is not concerned about the air quality or toxicity around the fire.
There was no ordnance on board, Sobeck said. There are a million gallons of fuel on board, he said, but that is "well below" any heat source.
The explosion was probably caused by a change in air pressure, he told the Union-Tribune.
San Diego is the Bonhomme Richard's home port, and the ship was undergoing routine maintenance at the time of the fire.
About 160 sailors and officers were on board, Raney said — far fewer than the thousand typically on the ship when it's on active duty.
All crew members were accounted for, said Admiral Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations.
"We are grateful for the quick and immediate response of local, base, and shipboard firefighters aboard USS Bonhomme Richard," Gilday said in a statement.
The 23-year-old ship has the capacity to deploy and land helicopters, smaller boats and amphibious vehicles. Because of its age, a fire could be particularly destructive, especially if it reached the engine room and other tight spaces with machinery, said Lawrence B. Brennan, a professor of admiralty and international maritime law at Fordham University in New York.
"The heat of a fire of this nature can warp the steel, and that can be a major problem for any ship," said Brennan. "On an older ship, it's even more of a problem."
Two other docked ships, USS Fitzgerald and USS Russell, were moved to berths away from the fire, officials said.


text:
- Home
- Science & Data
- Water Data Portal
- Groundwater Levels
Groundwater Levels
The potentiometric surface, or height of groundwater in feet using survey datum North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 88), is measured in wells throughout the District. Over 260 monitoring locations within the District are measured daily using telemetry. The majority of the water levels are collected from wells completed in the Upper Floridan aquifer. Water levels are also collected from wells completed in the intermediate aquifer system (the eastern portion of the District) and the surficial aquifer system.
Search for groundwater level and quality data.
Potentiometric Surface Map
When groundwater levels are contoured on a potentiometric surface map, the water level elevation is represented and the regional groundwater flow direction can be determined. Within the District, the regional direction of groundwater flow in the Upper Floridan aquifer is toward the Gulf of Mexico (northeast to southwest).
The District uses groundwater levels for evaluating long-term trends, detecting areas of water resource concerns, and developing management strategies. This information is useful to geologic consultants, well drillers, water plant operators, the agricultural community, and the general public.
View the Upper Floridan aquifer potentiometric surface maps for:
The District has three primary hydrogeologic units, in descending order:
- The unconfined surficial aquifer system
- The intermediate aquifer system/intermediate confining unit (present in the northeastern and eastern portions of the Suwannee River Water Management District)
- The Floridan aquifer system
View an interactive groundwater level map.
The Floridan Aquifer
The Floridan is a carbonate (limestone) aquifer that varies in degree of confinement but is continuous throughout the District. It is the primary source of this area's drinking and irrigation water. The Floridan aquifer system is represented by the Upper Floridan aquifer, mid-Floridan confining unit, and Lower Floridan aquifer. In the District, the mid-Floridan confining unit is generally poorly defined, as is the presence of the Lower Floridan aquifer. Nearly all wells for all water use types produce water from the Upper Floridan Aquifer in our region.
Water levels in the Floridan aquifer system fluctuate in response to climatic conditions and pumpage. In more than two-thirds of the District the total fluctuation is less than 15 feet. The lowest fluctuation is found along the Gulf coast where the water levels remain just above mean sea level. Higher fluctuations occur along the river corridors where the aquifer is influenced by the river's response to flooding and drought. The most dynamic fluctuation is seen in the Alapaha River basin in Hamilton County where the water table may fluctuate over 35 feet.


text: Here's a cool add on that could making racing games just a little more engaging. How about a real instrument cluster? [Herctrap] has written up the schematics and shared the code to get a real car's instrument cluster to be driven from x-sim. It is a slightly different approach than we've seen before, but really not too complicated.While this is still just another accessory sitting on his desk, it really seems to add a considerable amount of feedback to the game. Next he needs to build a motion rig for his seat!


text:
Notice: this Wiki will be going read only early in 2024 and edits will no longer be possible. Please see: https://gitlab.eclipse.org/eclipsefdn/helpdesk/-/wikis/Wiki-shutdown-plan for the plan.
3.2 Release Review - Acceleo 3.2
Mariot Chauvin (email@example.com)
Release Review : October 1, 2011
Communication Channel : eclipse.modeling.m2t newsgroup
Process Documentation : http://www.eclipse.org/projects/dev_process/development_process.php
Project Plan : http://www.eclipse.org/projects/project-plan.php?planurl=http://www.eclipse.org/modeling/m2t/acceleo/plan-indigo.xml
3.2 Release Highlights
New and noteworthy
Interpreter view
The interpreter view allows the user to enter Acceleo expressions and to execute them without the need to launch a generation.
This new view is available directly in the Acceleo perspective.
Performances improvements in the compilation and the tooling.
JRE selection in the new project wizard
When creating a new Acceleo project, you can now choose the JRE of your choice.
Improved compilation
The compilation has been improved and as such compiled Acceleo modules (".emtl" files) are now way smaller.
New dynamic modules extension point
Users who were using the dynamic module extension point to extends a generator can now use the brand new extension point created to contribute to a specific generator.
Acceleo 3.2 is compatible with Eclipse 3.4 (Ganymede), Eclipse 3.5 (Galileo), Eclipse 3.6 (Helios) and Eclipse 3.7 (Indigo).
Quality of APIs
The component lead certifies that the requirements for Eclipse Quality APIs have been met for this release. All non-API code is in "internal" packages.
End of Life Issues
The extension point for dynamic templates ("org.eclipse.acceleo.engine.dynamic.templates") is now deprecated. It still works but a new extension point has been contributed instead ("org.eclipse.acceleo.engine.dynamic.modules").
Committer Diversity
4 Committers from Obeo, and 2 individual committers.
IP Issues
The about files and use licenses are in place as per the Guidelines to Legal Documentation.
CQ 2518 - The Content includes items that have been sourced from the OMG MTL 1.0 specification : http://www.omg.org/spec/MOFM2T/1.0/ CQ 5533 - Google Collections Version: 1.0 (PB Orbit CQ3830)
All other contributions (code, documentation, images, etc) have been committed by individuals who are either Members of the Foundation, or have signed the appropriate Committer Agreement. In either case, these are individuals who have signed, and are abiding by, the Eclipse IP Policy. The other contributions of the IP log are not significant or are written 100% by employees of the same employer (Obeo) as the Submitting Committer (http://www.eclipse.org/legal/EclipseLegalProcessPoster.pdf).
All contribution Questionnaires have been completed.
The "provider" field of each plugin is set to "Eclipse Modeling Project".
The "copyright" field of each plugin is set to the copyright owner.
Any third-party logos or trademarks included in the distribution (icons, logos, etc) have been licensed under the EPL.
The Acceleo IP log is located at http://www.eclipse.org/projects/ip_log.php?projectid=modeling.m2t.acceleo
Non-Code Aspects
Unit tests
2789 unit tests are launched every day.
Code coverage is about:
- 82.9 % of the traceability engine
- 80.6 % of the compiler
- 61.7 % of the code generation engine
Code quality
Checkstyle activated on each distinct plug-in.
Eclemma used on a regular basis to improve test coverage.
Yourkit used on a regular basis to improve performances.
Javadoc represents more than 44% of the Java source code.
An Ohloh page is available at http://www.ohloh.net/p/acceleo-eclipse/analyses/latest
Metamodel definitions and interfaces are considered APIs.
Commitment to provide stand-alone code generation.
Non-API classes are separated from the exposed API through an "internal" namespace.
API Tooling is activated on all plugins to mark exceptions within the exposed API.
Non-API packages are exported with an internal visibility as such they are visible but with an illegal access warning.
The documentation that comes with Acceleo 3.2 is available in the Help menu : Acceleo Model To Text Transformation Language.
Each document of the documentation set deals with a different aspect of mastering Acceleo : There are a Plug-in Overview, a Quick Start, an Android Code Generation Tutorial, a User Guide, several short tutotials to create code generation projects, an Acceleo/OCL operations reference to describe the Acceleo/OCL library, and a Text Production Rules document.
The main documentation is the User Guide because it fully describes each and every feature of Acceleo. From the installation to the execution with a trip through the editing features, it gives an in-depth description of everything there is to know about Acceleo.
Basic Examples are available in the example category : UML to Java, and Ecore to Python.
There is also a basic information page on the Eclipse Wiki http://wiki.eclipse.org/Acceleo
blocker | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 |
critical | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 8 |
major | 3 | 3 | 0 | 8 | 14 |
normal | 23 | 18 | 0 | 34 | 75 |
minor | 1 | 1 | 0 | 8 | 10 |
enhancement | 7 | 3 | 0 | 6 | 16 |
Note : these figures are subject to changes as the whole team is in the process of fixing bugs until the final release (this snapshot has been taken on September 27, 2011)
Tool usability
Localization : integrated into Babel
This implementation of Acceleo is based on the OMG MOF Model-To-Text OMG Standard : http://www.omg.org/spec/MOFM2T/1.0/
End of Life
There are no specific end of life concerns for this release.
Talks have been given on the following events:
- Acceleo at Code Generation 2011: http://www.codegeneration.net/cg2011/sessioninfo.php?session=24
Talks will be given during EclipseCon Europe 2011.
Other medium:
- Activity on the M2T newsgroup (eclipse.modeling.m2t): more than 80 threads on Acceleo from June 2010 to May 2011
- Twitter account of the Acceleo project: http://twitter.com/acceleo
- Acceleo on stack overflow: http://stackoverflow.com/tags/acceleo/info
Committer Changes
Acceleo 3.2 Release Plan
RC1 10/10/2011 RC2 10/15/2011 Final 10/23/2011 3.2 10/24/2011
Project Plan
The Acceleo 3.2 project plan is available at http://www.eclipse.org/projects/project-plan.php?planurl=http://www.eclipse.org/modeling/m2t/acceleo/plan-3_2_0.xml
What's next?
Legal Notices
Java and all Java-based trademarks are trademarks of Oracle, Inc. in the United States, other countries, or both.
UML, OMG, EMOF, OCL and XMI are trademarks of the Object Management Group.
Other company, product, or service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.
Acceleo Portal | |
Project | Project · Installation |
Features | Acceleo Features · Runtime · Acceleo editor · Views & Perspective · Interpreter · Maven |
User documentation | Getting Started · User Guide · Acceleo operations reference · OCL operations reference · Text Production Rules · Migration From Acceleo 2.x · Best Practices · Videos · FAQ |
Developer documentation | Source code · How to contribute · Compatibility · MOFM2T specification · OCL specification |
Community | Professional Support · Report a bug |


text:
When 53-year-old Sean Connery agreed to return to the role of James Bond (a role he had abandoned, seemingly for good, twelve years earlier) in Never Say Never Again, the lead was that the original James Bond was back, but many also harped on his age, something which the film itself explicitly acknowledges. Ironically, Roger Moore, playing Bond in neighboring theaters in 1983's Octopussy, is three years older than Connery, and Moore hung on to his tux for two more years, bowing out after 1985's A View to a Kill. Despite the movie's playful acknowledgement that Bond had substantial mileage, Connery proved plenty fit for one more outing. Made outside of "Cubby" Broccoli's EON production stable, Never Say Never Again turned out to be a likeable but somewhat mediocre adventure handsomely mounted in the traditional Bond style but still lacking a few elements (most notably Monty Norman's Bond theme).
It's well documented how Never Say Never Again (a winking title suggested by Connery's wife) is a remake of Thunderball made possible by a sprawling lawsuit over the rights to the story co-written by Kevin McClory, Jack Whittingham and Bond creator Ian Fleming. So Connery is, in a way, retracing the steps of a Bond movie he's already made, in which Ernst Stavro Blofeld (Max von Sydow) and SPECTRE (the Special Executive for Counterintelligence, Terrorism, Revenge and Extortion) oversee a plot to hold two W80 warheads over the governments of the world and extort billions of dollars from them. Meanwhile, the beautiful Domino Petachi (Kim Basinger) seeks revenge against SPECTRE's man in the field, Maximillian Largo (Klaus Maria Brandauer), when she discovers he's responsible for the death of her brother, Air Force pilot Jack Petachi (Gavan O'Herlihy).
While the principal plot is fairly generic, uncredited writers Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais (rewriting credited screenwriter Lorenzo Semple, Jr.) and director Irvin Kershner add some flair around the edges. Take the opening passages, in which superspy Bond—ordered by "M" (Edward Fox) to eliminate "free radicals" after failing an MI6 test—checks into a health spa, where he finds himself in a knock-down, drag-out fight. Bond also must contend with a fearsome and funny femme fatale in Fatima Blush, played winningly by Barbara Carrera. Like the women, the locations are typically easy on the eyes: much of the film takes place in the Bahamas. And though the film frequently bogs down (and fatally so in the underwater climax), there is some solid action—in particular a fantastic motorcycle chase, expertly staged by Kershner (The Empire Strikes Back).
The inspiration of '80s fads dates the picture: besides the title song sung by Lani Hall with Herb Alpert trumpet solo (it's the exception and not the rule, after all, when a Bond title song isn't dated) and a terriblr score by Michel Legarnd, the plot nods to a pop culture dominated by Jane Fonda workouts and video-game arcades (one suspense sequence pits Bond against Largo in a wired-to-kill game of "Domination"). Instead of Desmond Llewelyn as "Q," Never Say Never Again offers Alec McCowen as Algernon. In one of the film's most drily funny scenes, Algernon tells Bond, "Good to see you, Mr. Bond. Things have been awfully dull around here. Bureaucrats running the old place, everything done by the book...Now you're on this, I hope we're going to have some gratuitous sex and violence." Bond's CIA buddy Felix Leiter turns up—as an African-American, for the first time—in the person of Bernie Casey, and a young Rowan Atkinson provides passing comic relief as the suggestively named Nigel Small-Fawcett, a nebbishy diplomat from the British Consulate.
In its Blu-ray debut, Never Say Never Again comes in a Collector's Edition (mirrored on DVD) with brand-new bonus features. For a film that's always looked a bit drab, Never Say Never Again looks its very best here, maximizing its source in an accurate transfer paired with a lossless DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix that gets the job done but offers little in the way of dimensional surround effects.
Bonus features include an interesting commentary with director Irvin Kershner and James Bond historian Steven Jay Rubin that recounts the film's convoluted history.
Three featurettes also piece together the experience of developing and then making the film. "The Big Gamble" (16:24, SD) features interviews with Rubin, consultant to producer Talia Shire Schwartzman, John Hyde of Producers Sales Organization, producer Jack Schwartzman's son John Schwartzman, Lorenzo Semple, Jr., Kershner, uncredited screenwriters Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, and Barbara Carerra. "Sean Is Back" (8:04, SD) is a largely fluffy collection of clips about the absent Connery; participants include John Schwartzman, Carrera, Kershner, Semple, Jr., Pamela Salem, Talia Shire Schwartzman, and Clement and La Frenais. Lastly, "The Girls of Never Say Never Again" (10:07, SD) is a nice rundown of the female cast, with comments from Talia Shire Schwartzman, Kershner, Carerra, Valerie Leon, and Pamela Salem.
Last up are a "Theatrical Trailer" (1:27, SD) and a Photo Gallery, in keeping with other MGM-distributed Bond releases.
Review gear: |
Panasonic Viera TC-P55VT30 55" Plasma 1080p 3D HDTV
Oppo BDP-93 Universal Network 3D Blu-ray Disc Player
Denon AVR2112CI Integrated Network A/V Surround Receiver
Pioneer SP-BS41-LR Bookshelf Speaker (2)
Pioneer SP-C21 Center Speaker
Pioneer SW-8 Subwoofer


text:
We are currently preparing to bake bagels after a recipe by Cynthia Barcomi. Strangely, in that recipe she uses both dry and fresh yeast in equal amounts. When searching the internet all I can find is advice on when to use which, but nothing on when to use both.
Can anyone explain why she does this?


text:
Same Day Priority Shipping
We found these other listings that you might like.
Our watch experts are here to help!
Same Day Priority Shipping
18 Month Warranty
10 Day No Hassle Returns
100% Safe And Secure Checkout
Stock Number: | 55315 |
Brand: | Rolex |
Model Name: | Rolex GMT Master II Batgirl Black Blue Bezel Steel Mens Watch 126710 Unworn |
Model Number: | 126710 |
Serial Number: | 8V5Sxxxx |
Gender: | Mens |
Movement: | Officially certified chronometer automatic self-winding movement. |
Jewels: | 31 |
Caliber: | 3285 |
Case: | Stainless steel case 40 mm in diameter. Rolex logo on the crown. |
Bezel: | Stainless steel bidirectional rotating GMT bezel with blue and black Batman Cerachrom ceramic insert. |
Crystal: | Scratch resistant sapphire crystal with cyclops magnifier. |
Dial: | Black lacquer dial with white luminescent hour markers and Mercedes hands. Blue GMT hand. Date window at 3 o'clock aperture. |
Bracelet: | Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet with flip lock clasp and easylink micro-adjustment. Fits up to 7.5" wrist. |
Condition: | Never been worn. |
Engravings: | None |
Box & Papers: | Rolex box and card |
Working Condition: | Timed to precision on Witschi watch expert timing machine. Running strong and keeping the accurate time. |
Authenticity: | 100% authentic |
Warranty: | The watch is covered by SwissWatchExpo 18-month warranty |
Pictures: | All the photos are of the actual watch for sale |
Rolex GMT Master II Batgirl Black Blue Bezel Steel Mens Watch 126710 Unworn. Officially certified chronometer automatic self-winding movement. Stainless steel case 40 mm in diameter. Rolex logo on the crown. Stainless steel bidirectional rotating GMT bezel with blue and black Batman Cerachrom ceramic insert. Scratch resistant sapphire crystal with cyclops magnifier. Black lacquer dial with white luminescent hour markers and Mercedes hands. Blue GMT hand. Date window at 3 o'clock aperture. Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet with flip lock clasp and easylink micro-adjustment. Fits up to 7.5" wrist.
Warranty provided by SwissWatchExpo, Inc. Manufacturer's warranty does not apply.
SwissWatchExpo has been an esteemed dealer of fine Swiss watches for many years. Our impeccable reputation is what has allowed us to grow from a single Atlanta showroom to one of the world's largest online dealers of luxury timepieces.
Read Customer TestimonialsWe understand that buying or selling a luxury watch is a big decision. We want you to understand that preserving our well-known reputation for Quality, Value and Service is equally important to us. When our customers are happy, we prosper, and that has worked for us for many years. That's why our utmost goal is nothing less than 100% satisfaction for 100% of our customers.
Check online independent sources such as Google, eKomi and eBay to see why our customers give us 100% satisfaction. We want you to have complete peace of mind about your SwissWatchExpo purchase. Our Triple Guarantee assures you of a totally risk-free, worry-free purchase:
Best Deal Guarantee: We offer the best value on luxury watches that you will find anywhere. There is much more to a great deal than just finding a low price. Most important of all is obtaining a truly fine watch of genuine quality. Also, free domestic shipping is nice, and that's standard at Swiss Watch Expo. All of these factors ensure that with us, you always get the best value. That's our Best-Deal Guarantee.
Authenticity Guarantee: Each of our watches has been meticulously inspected by a master watchmaker and is guaranteed 100% authentic.
18-Month Limited Warranty: If your watch fails as a result of a manufacturer's defect during the first 18 months, we will repair or replace the item at absolutely no cost to you. For more details, see our Limited Warranty.
Read moreSwissWatchExpo is honored to have the opportunity to serve you. That is why we stand by all of our products with a full 18-month limited warranty. If an item we sell you should fail as a result of a manufacturer's defect at any time during the first 18 months, we will repair or replace the item at absolutely no cost to you.
If your watch has any symptoms of abnormally gaining time, losing time, or not keeping proper time please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. If it is determined by SwissWatchExpo that a repair under warranty is required, one of our trained watch professionals will direct you on how to safely and efficiently ship the watch to us.
Read moreSWISSWATCHEXPO OFFERS FREE GROUND SHIPPING ON ALL US DOMESTIC ORDERS AND ECONOMICAL INTERNATIONAL SHIPMENT AROUND THE WORLD
UPS | 2 Days Delivery | FREE |
UPS Express | 1 Day Delivery | $50 |
UPS Saturday Delivery | 1 Day Delivery | $80 |
Canada & International | Air Express | $100 |
Order Tracking will be mailed to you immediately after shipping has been processed All orders usually ship within 1 business days at latest. Actual delivery dates may vary due to delivery location and the items you order.
I had a very good experience with Ro. I benefited by being local so I was able to visit their location and gain comfort with SWE. The owner and his mother came out to visit when I picked up my piece. Nice touch and the type of delivery expected when making such a large investment.
The staff was very helpful when selecting the watch. They also answered the phone and answered any questions we had. You are very happy with the watch. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a quality watch!
I recently purchased an Omega Speedmaster and a women's Rolex for my fiancé. First time buying from here but definitely won't be the last. I had the pleasure of working with Zubair. I was very impressed by his knowledge and attention to detail. He had answers to all my questions and stayed in touch throughout the process of receiving the product. I am looking forward to my next purchase!
Great experience start to finish. Great people to work with. They make you feel comfortable with such a big expenditure. The Rolex I purchased was because mine was stolen when I our house was broken into. I'm very happy with my experience!!
⭐ EXCELLENT experience in browsing, calling to discuss and buying two very nice pre-owned watches (Jaeger LeCoultre, Omega) from SwissWatchExpo last month. MEG was my sales representative – very professional and knowledgable about watch features and condition. Also helpful in setting up bank wire transfer process to get sizable discount on both watches. Their website descriptions, spec lists and photo galleries are very informative ... absolutely no surprises when receiving the watches, they look as if they were brand new! Definitely my "go to" place for browsing future wristwatch options!
Entirely professional throughout the whole experience, from assessing a price for my own watch, the shipping, returning, help with questions. Friendly, easy, efficient! Comparing the prices of watches for sale to other places, they're the best.
Great experience with Mr. Cash. Watch came in exactly as described and depicted. Fast and secured shipping. Will definitely purchase from again in the future.
A+ customer service. Lots of inventory and fair pricing. I felt comfortable buying a luxury watch online. I'm thrilled with my new watch.
Easy. Responsive. Fair value.
Working with Swiss Watch Expo was a fantastic experience! They are knowledgeable, professional, and the service was phenomenal! They took the time to FaceTime with me multiple times to show me the watch I was inquiring about and answered all my questions. Furthermore, the masterful polishing and servicing of the watch in particular was the cherry on top! Lastly, Zubear (I might have his name spelled incorrectly, my apologies if so) was the representative I was in contact with and he made the process seamless and can't thank him enough. I look forward to purchasing my next watch with them in the future.
Service was fast watch was as advertised very happy with my purchase I'll be buying more from them. I have made multiple purchases they do a excellent job always above and beyond expectations!
Incredibly professional! I was not only shown the watch I was interested in, but I was given an amazing tour of their store by Michael. When I received my watch, it was exactly at described. Highly recommend Michael and Swiss Watch Expo!!
The salesperson was an excellent communicator and went the extra mile to detail a great micro brand watch. Delivery was as promised, the terms of the sale were fair. Bravo!
The service I received was over the top from the beginning of the process to the receipt of my Rolex Submariner. All of this was attributed to Vladyslav my representivive.He just made what I thought was going to be a stressful situation to one of the most pleasant experiences . His patience , working with me was great! Thank you .
Great experience.- timely delivery and watch was as described. thank you.
I give you five stars because of your sales person, Meg Fernandez. She was awesome to deal and extremely professional. The Delivery did not go without a glitch however, as the appropriate amount of links were not installed. Which caused me to take care of it on my end. I was also disappointed to hear that you were charging me $200 per link and my AD only charged $70. I thought that was a little bit over aggressive on your behalf. Otherwise, very satisfied.
Sooo in love with my Rolex!! Can't wait to order another!!
What a wonderful company to do business with. The whole staff did such a great job with instructions after the sale and helping me through out this process. If I ever buy another used Swiss watch it will be from these people. Shout out to Deion T, Lydia A, Hayden S, Nancy, Zubair and Ro for all their help, thank you so much for such a wonderful watch.
I love the Rolex watch that I chose. It looks very new. It came exactly after 2 days,when she emailed me on the time it was mailed. It was delayed, because I believe , I ordered the watch on a Friday. I just learned from my colleague that this company is excellent. He bought 5 watches from you guys.i will certainly buy another one. Thank you.
SwisswatchExpo was outstanding to do business with. The website, and customer service reps were professional and polite. I would gladly do business with them anytime.
First watch I have bought online and I can say I will not buy anywhere else! Fantastic communication and salesmanship. Well packaged and shipped quickly. Exceeds my expectations.
Thank you for another great experience, and for supplying my third Rolex!
After looking for a Cartier Tank Anglaise for nearly two years, I finally found it at Swiss Watch Expo. The sales staff was knowledgeable and responsive, the watch seems in excellent condition. I would use this service for previously owned pieces again. Shipper ParcelPro failed to update shipment tracking information at least daily, let alone in a timely manner.
I am a return customer. I bought from Swiss Watch Expo a few years ago and was truly impressed how professional and easy the transaction was. So much so I just bought from them again. My current purchase experience was no different. The communication from beginning to end was top notch. When receiving my watch it was packaged incredibly well. The description and pictures of the watch were accurate in all respects. They delivered a beautiful watch and experience that I have come to expect. I would highly recommend Swiss Watch Expo and will use them again in the future.
My experience with Swiss Watch Expo went very smoothly. My sales person, Ro was very helpful and professional. My husband loves the Omega Seamaster 007 watch. It was in excellent condition. Ro faced timed me to make sure I was comfortable with the purchase. I had never been to their actual store, so he gave me a tour of their facility over facetime. Great experience.
Jason was very helpful. Face time was useful to be able to see the watch. It was as advertised.
Today I had the amazing pleasure of dealing with Ro. What an amazing fun friendly salesman. He showed me the watch through FaceTime and ultimately I decided to buy it. It was a tag huer chronograph. The experience that this man made for me was a true selling point and it was just fun to be able to share this purchase..
The transaction with SWE could not have been any smoother. Worked with Vlad and he was very communicative throughout the whole process. Received the watch and it's top notch as described. Will definitely do business with SWE for my future watch needs.
The service that I received was great! Once i picked out the watch I wanted and ordered it, I received a phone to assist me with the payment for the watch. The watch got to me on the exact date that I was told it would be received. After having the watch for a few days, we thought there might be a problem with the auto winding. One of the sales people got on a facetime call with me to go over what needed to be done and guided me through how to correct the issue. Everyone that I dealt with was very nice and extremely helpful.
Awesome watch, called and spoke to a sales rep about a few questions I had prior to ordering. He was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions without hesitation. Made ordering grey more comfortable from someone who knew what they were selling, and understood the significance of purchasing a watch like this. I knew I would pay a premium for a pre owned in this great of condition, with this current market so no complaints on the price. I'm very impatient so I don't care to wait on an AD, and will most likely pickup a gold GMT from here when I'm ready. 100% recommend SWE.
Great products, very nice service. The price is good for what I received. Can't ask for more
Fantastic service and support, great team
Great service and beautiful watch.
Great customer service, quick shipping and item just as deacribed!
Second watch. Great place to shop. Watch arrived within days. I'll definitely continue to buy watches from Swiss Watch Expo.
Responsive! Watch showed up in probably better condition that expected. I would recommend
I have purchased 2 watches from SwissWatchExpo. Both watches were in good quality. Michael and rest of the SWE team are excellent effectively communicating all the necessary details to customers. I was also provided with very fast international delivery. I highly recommend SWE for your next watch. - Nusrat
Great service and great inventory. Will be back.
Selection was outstanding. Service was great.
I did a great deal of research and Swiss watch Expo had excellent prices, good reviews in general , and an excellent website . I bought 2 Rolex's & an Omega in a 3 week time period . I worked with Roman who was super knowledgeable and a great guy . Very helpful and honest . The last watch. I bought unfortunately , I couldn't get a call back from Roman or anyone, and ended up ordering online without assistance . They were just, I believe overwhelmed with business . I'm looking at a Rolex for my girlfriend . Hopefully I'll get Roman on Monday . Shipping was on time and the watches were in excellent condition as described. Great organization ! Thanks Swiss Watch Expo !
Amazing staff!
All employees knowledgeable and helpful; even advised me of a coupon for savings I had not seen. Watch is better than pictured, beautiful and almost like-new. Great experience.
GMT II Master "Pepsi" What an excellent purchase. 100% authentic with box and papers. Near new factory condition. Online photos are of the watch you are purchasing. Excellent warranty, and the customer service is on point. Shipping was secure, got it in 36 hours, and FREE. Price points are more than fair. Had it authenticated at an AD dealer and they actually offered me a little more than what I paid for it due to the excellent condition the watch was in. I will definitely purchase from Swiss watch expo again.
Great. Fast shipping. Watch was in perfect condition.
Bought a John Mayer Rolex through Meg…delightful sales rep. Could not have gone any smoother. Was a great experience and LOVE my watch. Will do business with Swiss Watch again.
I've purchased multiple watches from SWE. Vlad is my go to person. I've always had a great experience and highly recommend them.
I ordered the watch and it was exactly what I ordered. I will buy another watch from this company, very pleased.
Extremely professional, responsive, and helpful. Watch is absolutely perfect! I would definitely do business with again
SWE was AWESOME 😎 Michael Cash, Vald were Excellent super fast shipping and Extremely large inventory! Authentic quality!!
Phenomenal customer service! I was skeptical about ordering such an expensive watch online, but they reassured me every step of the way, up until the watch was in my hand. Great follow up. The watch was in perfect, mint condition as described with all the paperwork and box as listed on the website description! Best of all the recipient of the watch, a watch enthusiast, was very impressed and satisfied. I trust this company and will likely use again in the future. A Win!
Authenticity has never once been an issue at SwissWatchExpo and we are extremely proud of our track record dating back many years and thousands of watches. You're welcome to authenticate your watch locally at any authorized retailer. It is essential to use authorized retailers only for any questions regarding a luxury timepiece. For a list of authorized retailers for any specific brand please go to the manufacturers website. LEARN MORE
We are committed to delivering watches in 'like new' condition where possible. We list the condition clearly in the product details section of each watch. Each watch we sell is first certified and — if needed - restored by our expert watchmakers, making an elegant timepiece that will command respect and admiration when worn on your wrist. Our watchmakers' exacting standards and attention to detail, allow us to offer our watches at a condition that our competitors can't match. We hold ourselves to the highest standards in the industry, and offer unbeatable prices for the quality of our merchandise. LEARN MORE
SwissWatchExpo is honored to have the opportunity to serve you. That is why we stand by all of our products with a full 18-month limited warranty. If an item we sell you should fail as a result of a manufacturer's defect at any time during the first 18 months, we will repair or replace the item at absolutely no cost to you.
If your watch has any symptoms of abnormally gaining time, losing time, or not keeping proper time please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or email. If it is determined by SwissWatchExpo that a repair under warranty is required one of our trained watch professionals will direct you on how to safely and efficiently ship the watch to us. READ FULL WARRANTY


text:
Security is an important consideration when designing a database application. Who can get access to what data? How much damage can someone do if they get at your data?
In SQL Server 2005 Microsoft implemented column-based encryption, and in SQL Server 2008 they added Transparent Data Encryption. Both solutions work well for their intended use, and they're not mutually exclusive.
When I walk into a new client it's important for me to know what the security environment is, and how data is secured. Weak encryption is better than none at all, but strong encryption is better.
I've written a PowerShell script that reports by database what encryption keys have been implemented, and what algorithm is used for each key. First I load the SMO library and then connect to the SQL Server instance via SMO.
[System.Reflection.Assembly]::LoadWithPartialName( 'Microsoft.SqlServer.SMO') | out-null $s = new-object ('Microsoft.SqlServer.Management.Smo.Server') 'MyServer\MyInstance'
Then, I iterate through the databases, and within each database I grab the database name, then I pipe the AsymmetricKeys collection to a select where I return the database name, the key name and algorithm, then do the same thing for the symmetric keys.
# Iterate through the databases to check database names foreach ($db in $s.Databases) { [string]$nm = $db.Name $keys = $db.AsymmetricKeys $keys | select @{Name="Database"; Expression = {$nm}}, Name, KeyEncryptionAlgorithm $keys = $db.SymmetricKeys $keys | select @{Name="Database"; Expression = {$nm}}, Name, EncryptionAlgorithm }
This gives me a quick view of what's been set up. I look to see that a strong algorithm is used, like AES256 (or higher), and any use of DES or TripleDes is a big red flag, due to its weakness against dictionary attacks.
A discussion on encryption strategies is beyond the scope of what I wanted to do here, I just wanted to give you a way to find the keys you're using and make sure they meet your needs.


text:
Neanderthal skulls study suggests they became extinct because they had larger eyes than our species
A new study of Neanderthal skulls suggests that they became extinct because they had larger eyes than our species.
As a result, more of their brain was devoted to seeing in the long, dark nights in Europe, at the expense of high-level processing.
This ability enabled our species, Homo Sapiens, to fashion warmer clothes and develop larger social networks, helping us to survive the ice age in Europe.
The study is published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B Journal.
Neanderthals are a closely related species of human that lived in Europe from around 250,000 years ago. They coexisted and interacted briefly with our species until they went extinct about 28,000 years ago, in part due to an ice age.
The research team explored the idea that the ancestor of Neanderthals left Africa and had to adapt to the longer, darker nights and murkier days of Europe. The result was that Neanderthals evolved larger eyes and a much larger visual processing area at the back of their brains.
The humans that stayed in Africa, on the other hand, continued to enjoy bright and beautiful days and so had no need for such an adaption. Instead, these people, our ancestors, evolved their frontal lobes, associated with higher level thinking, before they spread across the globe.
Eiluned Pearce of Oxford University decided to check this theory. She compared the skulls of 32 Homo sapiens and 13 Neanderthal skulls.
She found that Neanderthals had significantly larger eye sockets – on average 6 mm longer from top to bottom.
Although this seems like a small amount, she said that it was enough for Neanderthals to use significantly more of their brain to process visual information.
"Since Neanderthals evolved at higher latitudes, more of the Neanderthal brain would have been dedicated to vision and body control, leaving less brain to deal with other functions like social networking," said Eiluned Pearce.
This is a view backed by Prof. Chris Stringer, who was also involved in the research and is an expert in human origins at the Natural History Museum in London.
"We infer that Neanderthals had a smaller cognitive part of the brain and this would have limited them, including their ability to form larger groups. If you live in a larger group, you need a larger brain in order to process all those extra relationships," he explained.
The Neanderthals more visually focused brain structure might also have affected their ability to innovate and to adapt to the ice age that was thought to have contributed to their demise.
There is archaeological evidence, for example, that the Homo sapiens that coexisted with Neanderthals had needles which they used to make tailored clothing. This would have kept them much warmer than the wraps thought to have been worn by Neanderthals.
Prof. Chris Stringer said that all these factors together might have given our species a crucial advantage that enabled us to survive.
"Even if you had a small percent better ability to react quickly, to rely on your neighbors to help you survive and to pass on information – all these things together gave the edge to Homo sapiens over Neanderthals, and that may have made a difference to survival."
The finding runs counter to emerging research that Neanderthals were not the stupid brutish creatures portrayed in Hollywood films, but may well have been as intelligent as our species.
Oxford University's Prof. Robin Dunbar, who supervised the study, said that the team wanted to avoid restoring the stereotypical image of Neanderthals.
"They were very, very smart, but not quite in the same league as Homo sapiens."
"That difference might have been enough to tip the balance when things were beginning to get tough at the end of the last ice age," he said.
Up until now, researchers' knowledge of Neanderthals' brains has been based on casts of skulls. This has given an indication of brain size and structure, but has not given any real indication of how the Neanderthal brain functioned differently from ours. The latest study is an imaginative approach in trying to address this issue.
Previous research by Eiluned Pearce has shown that modern humans living at higher latitudes evolved bigger vision areas in the brain to cope with lower light levels. There is no suggestion though that their higher cognitive abilities suffered as a consequence.
Studies on primates have shown that eye size is proportional to the amount of brain space devoted to visual processing. So the researchers made the assumption that this would be true of Neanderthals.


text:
More Than 30 Tips For Healthier Cooking
If you grew up in a house where red meat and fried foods always took center stage, then healthy cooking techniques might feel a bit foreign in your kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned chef looking to make conscious changes or a cooking novice ready to get comfortable in the kitchen, there's a healthy and helpful tip on this list for everyone.
— Additional reporting by Michele Foley
Wrap Your Sandwich in Veggies
Loading up on refined carbs isn't the best tactic for a balanced diet. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to swap in produce for carbs. For a tasty wrap, Swiss chard leaves hold things together nicely!
Consider the Smoke Point
It's important not to heat olive oil (or any cooking oil) over its smoke point, the temperature at which a cooking fat or oil begins to break down and the oil smokes or burns, giving the oil (and food) an unpleasant taste. Olive oil begins to lose its health benefits and unique flavor when it starts to smoke, but luckily it stands up well to high temperatures, with a smoke point of 410ºF (210ºC).
Prep Produce in Advance
One of the most cumbersome parts of cooking is all that chopping and mincing! Prep produce in advance and chop everything early in the week. Even if you don't have specific recipes in mind, wash, chop, and peel your favorite veggies. From there, you're just 10 minutes away from a healthy stir-fry, soup, or pasta dish.
Bake Up Favorites
Frying up fish or chicken is not an ideal technique for everyday eating. Baking these proteins may be more time consuming, but the reduction in calories and fat make it worth the effort. Even with classic, decadent appetizers, there are plenty of healthier baked versions — like these baked buffalo wings: they might just be better than the original.
Mix In Tofu
For a healthier burger, add crumbled tofu to your ground meat mixture. Replacing part of your mix with tofu not only helps keep the patties moist, which is especially helpful if you are using a lean meat, and it also lessens the calorie and saturated fat count.
Use Your Blender
There are plenty of ways your kitchen can help you lose weight, but one appliance in particular is key — a blender. It can help you whip up a variety of low-calorie recipes that will satisfy your appetite, without adding inches to your waistline.
Cook One Serving
When people eat healthy but aren't seeing the weight-loss results they're striving for, portion size is often the culprit. It takes a little math, but simply divide your favorite recipes accordingly to cook one serving. For example, if a recipe serves four, then divide each ingredient measurement in the recipe by four.
Don't Be Afraid of (All) High-Calorie Foods
Be careful about snubbing certain high-calorie picks like avocados, nuts, and olive oil. They might be pushing the calorie count, but they also offer essential nutrients to your diet. Just use them wisely and be mindful of your portion sizes.
Add Whole Grains
Stripped of their bran and germ, refined grains lack essential nutrients, which is a reason to swap out the refined grains with whole grains when it comes to your snacks and sides. The whole grain farro is a great substitute for pasta, and quinoa can be used in place of rice.
If you just can't get on board with the taste of whole grains, experiment while baking by adding equal parts whole grain flour to regular white flour. Or try mixing white rice with brown in order to reap some whole grain benefits.
Make Your Own Spice Mixes
Instead of relying on sugar or salt to flavor your food, get creative and make your own spice mixes. Look to ready-made spice mixtures in the supermarket to inspire your personal creations. You'll be able to season your meat, pastas, or even snacks at a fraction of cost — not to mention, a fraction of the salt.
Crush Your Garlic
To maximize garlic's healthy benefits, give it a good crush! Crushing garlic will conserve its healthy compounds — the same compounds that break up blood clots. Like any vegetable, you get the most bang for your buck when it's raw, but past studies show that after crushing your garlic, allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. Crushing it triggers a reaction that boosts the healthy compounds in garlic, even after it's cooked.
Always Rinse Canned Goods
Canned foods tend have higher sodium levels than their fresh counterparts. If you're in a pinch and need to use canned beans or veggies, be sure to rinse them well before you cook them up. Whenever possible, plan ahead and opt for dried beans!
Bring Beans to Dessert
Between their fiber, protein, and iron content, everyone should include more legumes in their diet. If you're having trouble stomaching a bowl of beans, you can still reap the healthy benefits without your taste buds even realizing it. There are tons of bean-loaded dessert recipes to appeal to your sweet tooth.
Double the Veg
Does your chickpea salad call for half a cup of diced grape tomatoes? Add one cup instead. Your quesadilla recipe says to use one cup of corn? Add two. Feel free to get creative and add veggies that aren't in your recipe in order to enhance flavor and increase fiber.
Make Over Your Fridge
By placing the healthy stuff front and center and keeping more indulgent foods out of sight, you'll find that reorganizing your fridge can make a big difference in your cooking and diet. Simplifying and constantly cleaning it out will help you on your healthy journey, too.
Go Open-Faced
Reducing the calories of your sandwich is as simple as one little subtraction: halve the bread. Instead of placing all your fillings in between two slices of bread, remove the top piece and go open-faced. You'll still enjoy all the flavors and textures you crave with a classic sandwich. Here are some open-faced sandwich ideas to inspire your next meal.
Love Lean Cuts
Yes, chicken and turkey are lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than their red meat counterparts. However, using lean cuts of beef, veal, and pork can go a long way to creating a healthier diet. The USDA defines a lean cut of beef as a 3.5-ounce serving that contains fewer than 4.5 grams of saturated fat and 95 milligrams of cholesterol. When choosing beef, opt for cuts graded "choice" or "select" rather than "prime" and have the least visible amount of marbling.
Go Greek
Skip oil, butter, and heavy cream, and bump up levels of calcium, protein, and probiotics by using Greek yogurt. It can easily sub in for mayo, sour cream, or heavy milk in your favorite recipes.
Make Everything a Salad
If you don't have the energy to cook a healthy side dish of veggies or prep an elaborate salad, throw some greens on whatever you're eating. It doesn't matter if it's pizza, pasta, or curry, a handful of leafy greens always seems to make a dish more delicious.
Measure With Care
If you're following a healthy recipe with nutritional information, stick to the measurements used in the recipe. While you may think it's easy to eyeball oil, sugar, or salt quantities, you may not realize just how many tablespoons you're using if you don't use measuring spoons.
Same Ingredients, Different Dish
Recognize that your dietary needs might be different than your partner's or roommate's. Nutritionist Cynthia Sass explained the compromise she made with her husband. "We can't [always] split a meal, so when we cook together we'll have similar ingredients, but make different things." For example, on taco night, Cynthia enjoys a healthy taco salad with avocado and pico de gallo, while her husband goes for a big burrito with all the fixings.
Maximize Produce Nutrients
Whenever using fresh fruits and veggies, make sure you maximize their nutritional content with proper cooking techniques, like steaming rather than boiling. Resist the urge to peel produce since a lot of essential nutrients are found in the skin.
Sub In Citrus
Instead of topping your favorite vegetables with heavy sauces or cheese, fresh citrus juice adds a bright flavor. Lemon and orange juice also make delicious bases to light and tasty salad dressings. You can forget the store-bought stuff that is heavier in calories and fat and make your own. Try this citrus hemp-seed dressing with your next salad.
Go En Papillote
Cooking chicken or fish en papillote — or wrapping in a parchment or foil packet — creates light, steamed dishes and can help you avoid cooking in butter and oil. If you're a little intimidated by using parchment paper, watch Bob Harper's four-ingredient fish recipe that uses foil. This simple technique keeps the calories down, but the flavor profile high.
Pair Two Grains
If you're not a fan of a grain's texture, adding in an additional grain you like can disguise the texture a little, making it more palatable. Be sure to pair grains with similar cooking times. You might need to experiment with adding extra water or increasing the cooking, but once you perfect cooking two grains together, you'll never look back.
Choose Smarter Dairy
Eating too much dairy can cause tummy troubles, congestion, and acne for many folks. So mix it up! Pour almond milk into your cereal, make your breakfast parfait with soy yogurt, or go cheese-free on your pizza. If you can't give up all dairy for good — and we don't blame you! — make sure you always choose low-fat options when available.
Add On Herbs
Herbs add a depth of flavor to just about any dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a sprig of thyme can elevate a light pasta or plate of fresh veggies from pedestrian to sublime. And whenever possible, choose fresh herbs, since they offer more nutritional value.
Bake With Applesauce
Applesauce works as a substitute for both eggs and butter. The ratio of applesauce to butter is one to one: if a recipe calls for 1/2 cup of butter, simply sub in 1/2 cup of applesauce. For every large egg a recipe requires, toss 1/4 cup of applesauce in its place. Try out this banana apple chunk bread where the applesauce complements the other fruity flavors while keeping each bite dreamy and moist.
Bring On Broth
To save calories and add a new depth of flavor to your vegetables, forget the oil and use vegetable broth instead with the technique known as a wet sauté. Simply use twice as much vegetable broth as you would have of oil. If a recipe calls for two tablespoons of olive oil, try four tablespoons of broth.
Reduce the Butter and Oil
It's tempting to add flavor to your food by adding copious amounts of fats, sugar, and salt, but these are not the makings of a healthy diet plan. Reduce oil and butter when cooking by spraying a thin layer of on your pan, using a nonstick pan, or finding an alternative with less saturated fat.
Bring Veggies to Breakfast
Most breakfast options favor fruits and grains, but adding vegetables to your morning routine kick-starts your energy and provides plenty of vitamins, straight from the source — no supplements required. Serve up roasted veggies with an egg, substitute jicama for your morning apple, or blend leftover produce hiding in your crisper into a smoothie.
Skip the Pasta, Sub In Veggies
Swapping out noodles for veggies is all the rage for good reason! It's an easy technique to cut carbs and bring more nutrition to your plate. Check out these veggie noodle recipes to see how to make best use of you spaghetti squash, zucchini, and more!


text:
My bedroom gets ridiculously hot and I taped tin foil over the window. It didn't help much. I'm thinking of getting an air conditioner but the ledge on the window is small and the window doesn't open very much. I was looking at the portable air conditioners on Amazon and wonder, how do they work? Does the hot air get ejected through a hose that I could put out the window?
My window opens like this one so I take it a window AC is out of the question?


text:
Press, politics at center of Eritrean mock trial
Articles published in Eritrea's now-banned private newspapers are at the center of a mock political trial being filmed as an educational documentary this week at Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University.
Clues to the "crimes" on trial here can be found in a stack of Tigrigna-language clippings from newspapers that were eventually shut by the government in fall 2001. With titles including Setit, Meqaleh ("Mirror"), Keste Debena ("Rainbow"), and Admas ("Horizon"), they are relics of the once-vibrant private press in Africa's youngest nation. The May 24, 2001, edition of Meqaleh evoked in just five words the now-shattered hopes of the period: "Free press for national progress."
Beginning in 2000, private newspapers that had not previously questioned the policies of President Isaias Afewerki became more assertive following a split in the ruling elite, explained Simon Weldehaimanot, one of two Eritrean human rights lawyers behind the documentary project. The split pitted loyal supporters of Afewerki, the former guerilla leader, against reformers, including the 11 on trial here.
"The fact that a significant portion of the once-unified ruling party publicly dissented with the government emboldened the private press," Weldehaimanot said. In fact, many of the dissidents gave interviews and wrote newspaper columns critical of the government. For instance, in its August 10, 2001 edition, Setit reports the dismissal of the president of the High Court of Asmara after he accused the government of interfering with the judiciary.
"It was an unprecedented battle of ideas being communicated via the newspapers, and that's why we use these newspapers to reflect on that time," Weldehaimanot said. The published statements are referenced throughout the proceedings to document a timeline of political developments and as articles of evidence.
The private press coverage of this national debate earned the papers popularity with Eritrean readers, according to Weldehaimanot, a university student at the time. "Wherever you used to go, you used to see people reading. By 10 a.m., all the papers were gone. But people were so kind, they would either hand you their copy or photocopy it for you."
But editorials questioning the government's policies or airing dissenting opinions, such as one in the July 26, 2001, edition of Meqaleh, which called on the government to review its policy on conscription of journalists into national service, drew increasingly harsh government responses. Meqaleh Editor Mattewos Habteab was detained just a few days after the publication of the editorial and was held incommunicado for four months. He was re-arrested in September 2001 and is, to this day, one of at least 13 journalists thought to remain in secret prisons without charge or trial in Eritrea, Africa's leading jailer of journalists.
Semere Kesete, a close friend of Habteab and a lawyer co-directing the film, was once a contributor to Meqaleh and Setit. He published several critical analyses of executive excesses in the Eritrean legal system--until he became the story, as evidenced by an article in an August 10, 2001, edition of Setit. The story, headlined "Asmara University Student Union president not yet charged," refers to Kesete's arrest after he criticized government interference in academic affairs during a graduation speech. Worse, when a judge ordered his release after the state prosecutor failed to formulate charges, police threw him into prison and summarily arrested some 3,000 students on the courthouse grounds. Kesete later escaped from prison after a year of solitary confinement.
The Eritrean government's disregard for due process is illustrated in presidential rhetoric. Commenting on the case of imprisoned journalist Dawit Isaac, the president declared: "We don't take [him] to trial. We know how to deal with him and others like him and we have our own ways of dealing with that."
This film, to be called "Hear the Other Side," is a perfect response. The producers hope to release the documentary by September, the anniversary of the government's roundup of dissidents and journalists. Plans for the release are still in the works, although the producers hope to arrange screenings and distribute online. The law school, which Kesete now attends, is providing courtroom space and editing facilities.
(Reporting from Tempe, Ariz.)


text:
BALTIMORE (AP) — If trainer Art Sherman coughed, no one would care. When his horse coughs, that's news.
Kentucky Derby winner California Chrome coughed after training Thursday, leaving open the possibility the horse wouldn't be in top shape for Saturday's Preakness.
Sherman's veterinarian discovered that the colt had a small blister in his throat. Nothing a little mouthwash couldn't fix.
"California Chrome is fine. His throat is fine. He had a little tickle," said assistant trainer Alan Sherman, Art's son. "He is not scratching from the Preakness. He is fine. I don't know why it was blown out of proportion."
California Chrome is being treated with a glycerin throat wash.
Now that you know that, here are five more things to ponder about the Preakness:
BAD TRIP: Whether it's a crowded field or just bad luck, Ride On Curlin can't seem to get a smooth trip around the track.
Trainer Billy Gowan bemoaned the unfortunate situation and remained hopeful that a reversal of fortune would improve his seventh-place finish in the Derby.
"We just have to get a good trip," Gowan said. "I think he's a good horse. I think that's all we need. And if Chrome stubs his toe a little bit, well that would help."
This is the first Preakness for Gowan, whose horse will be attempting to get into the winner's circle for the first time in five races since Jan. 14.
"There's only one chance to run in the Preakness," Gowan said. "The Derby didn't take much out of him. He's given me all the signs he wants to run."
ONE IS THE LONELIEST: Dynamic Impact won the Illinois Derby from the No. 1 post position, and that's where he will be starting Saturday.
Problem is, the rail has not been kind to horses in the Preakness.
The last 3-year-old to win from the No. 1 post was Tabasco Cat in 1994. Before that, Bally Ache in 1960.
Dynamic Impact trainer Mark Casse, another first-timer at the Preakness said, "Things have to go our way and he has to save ground and then move out at some point. We will be closely watching the earlier races, and there could be some last-minute changes in our strategy."
The post position that has produced the most wins, by the way, is No. 6.
NEW SHOOTERS: California Chrome, Ride On Curlin and General a Rod are the only three horses to go from the Derby to the Preakness this year.
"I don't know why everybody skipped this race and is pointing toward the Belmont," said Ron Paolucci, co-owner of Ria Antonia. "There was a lot of bouncing around at the Derby. I think people believe California Chrome is more vulnerable going a mile-and-a-half than a mile-and-3/16ths on this type of track."
The last newcomer to win the Preakness was Rachel Alexandra in 2009, the only horse in Preakness history to win from the 13th post.
SPEEED THRILLS: Social Inclusion, the second-favorite in field, has led to gate to wire in his two wins and burst to the lead in his other race, the Wood Memorial, before fading to third.
The lightly raced colt is expected to set the pace in the Preakness, too.
"We'll be in good position in the early stages," owner Ron Sanchez said. "I didn't like being on the outside in the Wood, but the Pimlico front stretch is a little bit longer. My horse is more experienced now and he is multi-faceted. He has speed and strength."
Sanchez added: "He's going to finish. In the Wood, the track didn't help him. This time the track is going to help us."
ODDS AND ENDS: Keep in mind that if California Chrome wins the Preakness, there is no guarantee he will become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978. Thirty-three horses have won the Derby and Preakness, but only 11 backed that up with a win in the Belmont.
The largest margin of victory in the Preakness was 11 ½ lengths, by Smarty Jones in 2004. He broke the record of 10 lengths, set by Survivor in 1873.
If 30-1 long shot Ria Antonia wins Saturday, she could provide her backers the biggest payday in Preakness history. The record is held by Master Derby in 1975, a 23-1 shot that paid $48.80 to win.


text:
The latest news from our practice, updated regularly helping to keep you informed.
The Veterinary Hospital and Surgery
We are a small animal hospital in Gorleston and a small animal practice in Lowestoft, first established in 1984. We are passionate about animal care and our skilled team of veterinarians and vet nurses are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for your animals. Because we love animals and strive to provide excellent continuity of care, we are open six days a week and provide our own 24-hour emergency care at our Gorleston Hospital.
The latest news from our practice, updated regularly helping to keep you informed.
We are currently experiencing issues with our forms. We are working hard to resolve this as quickly as possible. For urgent requests, please call us.
Our website uses cookies to distinguish you from other users of our website. This enables us to provide you with a good experience when you browse our website and also allows us to improve our site.
You can find out more on our cookie page at any time.
Strictly Necessary Cookies should be enabled at all times so that the website operates correctly and that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.
This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages. Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.
Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!


text:
For two days beginning on Friday, May 31, the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA) is holding a convention at the Ameristar Casino Resort and Spa in St. Charles, Missouri (a suburb of St. Louis).
As explained on the group's website, the purpose of the convention is "to equip sheriffs, peace officers and public officials with the necessary information and public support to carry out their duties in accordance with their Oaths of Office."
The CSPOA's two-fold mission is to save America and to get enough people involved in that fight to make the dream a reality. The organization's website describes precisely how they propose to achieve this lofty and laudable goal:
The answers lie within our grasp and come from the foundation of our country. The principles are embodied within the Declaration of Independence and outlined in the Constitution.
Yes, America is in deep, deep trouble. The good news is that there is hope and my [CSPOA founder, former Arizona Sheriff Richard Mack's] victory at the US Supreme Court proves that it only takes a few to stand to make monumental changes. We do not have to stand by and watch while America is destroyed from within. If our counties, cities, and states and all local officers keep their oaths to protect us from tyranny, we can win this battle to take our country back.
This is our plan, our goal and our quest. We are forming the Constitutional Peace Officers Association which will unite all public servants and sheriffs, to keep their word to uphold, defend, protect, preserve, and obey the Constitutions of the United States of America. We already have hundreds of police, sheriffs, and other officials who have expressed a desire to be a part of this Holy Cause of Liberty.
We are going to train and vet them all, state by state, to understand and enforce the constitutionally protected Rights of the people they serve, with an emphasis on State Sovereignty and local autonomy. Then these local governments will issue our new Declaration to the Federal Government regarding the abuses that we will no longer tolerate or accept. Said declaration will be enforced by our Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers. In short, the CSPOA will be the army to set our nation free. This will guarantee this movement remains both peaceful and effective.
To help in the arming of these sheriffs and peace officers with the information they need to stand as the last and best line of defense against the federal government's near-constant assault on liberty and local law enforcement, the convention will feature speeches from an impressive variety of lawmen, lawmakers, lawyers, and constitutional scholars.
The invited presenters will address a wide range of issues, including the dangers of police consolidation, the federal government's attack on the Fourth Amendment, the right of states to oppose federal encroachment on their sovereignty, nullification, the Second Amendment, and the history of the formation of the union via the Constitution.
Additionally, on Saturday, June 1, several break-out sessions will be held, giving attendees an opportunity to ask speakers specific questions on issues important to their particular jurisdictions.
Remarkably, the CSPOA is offering free registration to all public officials. All sheriffs, police officers, county commissioners, and public officials may attend all sessions of the conference without paying a fee, including a pass for spouses. Additionally, all meals will be provided for these distinguished guests.
Convention attendance is not restricted to law enforcement, however. The general public is invited to come and learn these principles of liberty, as well. There is an attendance fee of $150 per person or $200 per couple. The cost covers admittance to the conference, educational materials, and meals.
Finally, the CSPOA's convention website makes the most convincing pitch to those concerned with the accelerating pace of the federal government's advance on the sovereignty of states, the independence of local law enforcement, and the perpetuation of our system of limited government and individual sovereignty:
This will be your opportunity to sit spellbound as you hear from heroic sheriffs, police chiefs and constitutional scholars from across the country who are standing firm for our freedoms in the face of an overreaching, out of control federal government. Join with us in giving them support as they face increasing odds in the battle to serve the people and protect their rights.
The New American will report from the convention, including interviews with several key presenters.
- In Memory of a Man Long Forgotten - December 8, 2021
- License Plate Scanners: Surveillance on Your Smartphone - October 12, 2020
- Museums, Libraries, and Public TV Receive Half a Billion in Bailout From Senate - March 27, 2020


text:
Few companies in North America have been better at taking advantage of the growing popularity of bottled water than Canada's Ice River Springs. Headquartered near a springwater source in Feversham, Ontario, nearly all of what the firm produces is in the private-label category. And since its customers include the likes of Walmart and Loblaw, we're talking about a whole lot of bottles coming out of the firm's seven plants, including several in the U.S.
The most impressive new line Ice River has installed is Line 8 at its sprawling Feversham headquarters facility. It's dedicated to 500-mL bottles made in-house from 100% post-consumer recycled PET (for a look at Ice River's ambitious, vertically integrated, and successful closed-loop bottle-to-bottle recycling operation, go to packworld.com/video-31156).
Line 8 is a blow/fill line that runs at 1,200 bottles/min. Preforms made in Feversham are stored in large bulk containers until cool and then taken to hoppers that feed two Krones stretch blow molders.
"We've looked at conveying them straight from injection molding and into the blow molders, but they do need to cool to ambient temp, which takes about 24 hours when they're stored in the bulk containers," says James Gott, project manager at Ice River. "If we sent preforms straight into the blow molders, we'd need at least 20 minutes of conveying time, and probably even some cooling or air conditioning would have to be involved in the process."
One blow molder has 24 cavities and produces 800 bottles/min while the other has 12 cavities and does 400/min.
"These are our first Krones blow molders," notes Gott. "We've always had good experience with their other equipment, primarily fillers and cappers, and we'd heard good things about their blow molders, so we wanted to try them."
Bottles exit the blow molders on air conveyors that bring them to a Krones filler/capper/labeler block. Along the route is a drop bin. If anything goes wrong downstream to cause a backup, bottles drop into this bin until the backup issue is resolved. Bottles from the drop bin are then fed back into production through an unscrambler from Lanfranchi.
Bottles are single-filed just ahead of the Krones filler/capper/labeler block, which has 104 filling nozzles, 39 capping heads, and 36 labeling stations. Glue-applied paper labels are of the cut-and-stack variety.
Caps are sorted and fed by a machine from Aidlin. Like the preforms that are fed into the line, the polypropylene caps are injection-molded in-house. While Gott acknowledges the cost savings that accrue from this kind of vertical integration, he says there are other benefits to be gained, as well.
"We've been making our caps since 2008," says Gott. "It gives us more freedom to experiment and push things forward, which is why we were about two years ahead of the bottled water industry in general when we introduced a short-skirted cap weighing just one gram instead of 1.8. Keep in mind, too, that when you change the cap configuration you also need to modify the neck finish on your preform, and here again we were able to do all of this much more quickly because we are so vertically integrated."
Filled, capped, and labeled bottles pass through a Krones Checkmat vision system that checks for cocked caps, proper fill level, damaged labels, missing labels, or defects in bottles. Bottles that are defective in any way are kicked off the line. Laser date-coding by a Markem-Imaje system is followed by multipacking, but first is a large accumulation table. Should downstream equipment go down for any reason, blowing and filling can continue unabated and bottles can flow onto the accumulation table until the downstream problem has been resolved."
Multipacking is done on a Model M-75 shrink-wrap system from Douglas Machine that has 15 axes of motion driven by Kinetix servo drives from Rockwell . Also from Rockwell is the ControLogix controller that governs the Douglas machine. Douglas's Smartrak® infeed takes incoming bottles through a narrow choke section that is two thirds the width of the desired multipack pattern. Shortly after this choke section, the bottles enter a more open area where they are allowed to spread out freely, evenly, and with minimal back pressure. The Douglas Slipstream™ pinless metering system requires fewer change parts compared to a pin metering system. Metering belts advance the bottles into the metering area, a slip sheet creates the appropriate pack pattern gap, and metering bars stabilize tipsy bottles as they leave the metering section and enter the load area.
Ice River produces 12-, 18-, 24-, and 30-count bundles. Like the Krones blow molders, this is Ice River's first experience with a Douglas shrink wrapper. According to Gott, it's likely not the last.
"The operators love this machine," says Gott. "It's robust and fast, and if there is an issue that needs to be addressed, it's easy to get at it and get it fixed. Not only does it run reliably, the heat tunnel is very accurate and consistent in shrinking the film so that it makes a strong pack. That's why we're able to do unsupported multipacks. No corrugated pad or tray is needed. Changeover is easy, too. Re-set of the infeed requires a few mechanical adjustments, but that's easy. As for the spacing of the bottles, the controls system takes scare of that."
An ink-jet system from Videojet prints date-code information on each multipack. The low back-pressure conveyors from Descon that take the multipacks away from the shrink wrapper are helpful, says Gott, because the gentle handling they provide ensures that the shrink film won't be damaged or dislodged while it is still hardening after the heat of the shrink tunnel.
A Ryson spiral conveyor takes film-wrapped multipacks to an overhead conveyor leading to a high-level palletizer from Production Automation Inc.
"This palletizer is another first for us," says Gott. "We wanted high speed and we'd heard good things about PAI in the industry. It's proven to be a good machine."
The last machine in the line is a stretch wrapper from Wulftec/M.J. Mallis. This machine, notes Gott, is anything but a first for Ice River Springs. "We've been using Wulftec pallet wrappers on our lines since we started the business," says Gott.
Running commercially now since early 2009, Line 8 marks a sizeable improvement over the line it replaced, which was only capable of 500 bottles/min. Pleased though he is to have this increased production capacity, Gott marvels at the fact that in just two years, the technology showcased in Line 8 is practically passé.
"The 800 bottle-per-minute blow-molding system was state-of-the art when we bought it, but it's been surpassed already by a new-generation machine from Krones that does 900 per minute," says Gott. This being the case, he adds, he wonders if he should be interpack-bound when that triennial packaging machinery extravaganza opens May 12 in Dusseldorf, Germany.